It's not just that I like to crochet, I just can't stop doing it! I've written one book and contributed to a couple of others. If there are any publishers out there looking for an author for a brand new crochet book, look no further...

I am happy to take on commissions – click the link at the top of the main page to email me.
I work in a wide range of media, including papier maché, crochet and knitting, embroidery and collage. This is just a small selection of work...

My daughter Edie is in the middle of her A Levels and also preparing to apply to art school. Here is a photo she took of me doing some embroidery. I think it's a really good photograph, with great use of available light.

I have been inspired by others who have pledged to do the same. Over Christmas I read a piece in a newspaper written by a columnist who had decided not to buy any new clothes in 2010 (though he did buy some vintage shirts and a waterproof jacket, I think). Then there was an item on Woman's Hour the other day about an American clothes designer who wore the same dress every day for a year (she had seven copies of the same dress), and accessorized it with things she already owned.

Another incentive for not doing any clothes shopping in 2011 is the increase in VAT and a vow not to waste money.

So here goes... No New Clothes. I will wear only the clothes I already own. This includes shoes, underwear, accessories – everything. I will chart my progress by keeping a photographic record (see left-hand column), not on a daily basis but as often as I can. It will be interesting to take stock of my existing wardrobe and maybe to uncover items that have been pushed to the bottom of the drawer. (Although I will also be de-cluttering and taking unwanted clothes to the charity shop.) As things wear out they will, of course, have to be thrown away or recycled. I also intend to give some items a new lease of life by customising.